Sensory-Sensitive Spooky Season

Embracing Inclusivity and Comfort

Photo by Clint Patterson on Unsplash

Halloween stores are opening and the decoration displays are becoming more prominent sending a clear message: it’s nearly Spooky Season! But before you go decking the halls with ghosts and goblins, I wanted to take a moment and share with you some tricks we started implementing in order to create a sensory-sensitive experience for our kiddos.

From the moment my first kid was born, I had this idea in my head of what Halloween and trick-or-treating would be like. And let me tell you, real life looked nothing like that idea. Every costume, even ones my son picked out himself, caused meltdowns when it was time to wear them. His selective mutism reared its ugly head whenever someone opened a door after he refused to ring the doorbell. In short, Halloween for the first few years was stressful and no fun for anyone. We even considered no longer celebrating the holiday.

But then I realized how overstimulating the holiday must be. You see it show up in all kids, not just mine. The heightened emotions, the increased likelihood of meltdowns and tantrums, and the sugar highs followed immediately by sugar crashes. I began to wonder if there wasn’t a way for my children to enjoy the holiday in a calmer way. A way that wouldn’t be quite so triggering.

Halloween should be a magical time filled with excitement, costumes, and festivities. However, for individuals with sensory sensitivities, the overstimulation that often accompanies the holiday can be overwhelming. To ensure that everyone can fully enjoy the spirit of Halloween, it’s important to create an environment that caters to diverse sensory needs. There are many aspects of Halloween that can be altered in order to cater to diverse needs and in this article we will go over a few of them that have worked well for my family.

Decorations!

One of the key aspects of a sensory-sensitive Halloween is the decorations. While spookiness and creativity are essential, it’s important to strike a balance that accommodates different sensory needs.

1. Consider using soft and calming decorations that evoke warmth and coziness.
2. Opt for gentle lighting, such as string lights or candles, to create a soothing atmosphere.
3. Avoid loud and startling elements, such as sudden noises or flashing lights, that might overwhelm sensitive individuals and detract from the festive experience.

Costumes!

What’s Halloween without costumes? They’re a central part of Halloween, allowing everyone to express their creativity. But for those with sensory sensitivities, costume choices can significantly impact their comfort and enjoyment.

1. Encourage costume options that prioritize comfort and flexibility.
2. Opt for costumes made from soft, non-irritating fabrics that won’t cause discomfort or skin sensitivities.
3. Steer clear of costumes that restrict movement, have scratchy tags, or include tight headpieces.
4. Embrace creative alternatives that focus on imagination and self-expression, while keeping physical comfort in mind.

Trick-or-treating!

Traditional trick-or-treating might not be suitable for everyone, so offering alternative activities can ensure that everyone can partake in the Halloween fun. These alternatives create a more inclusive environment, where everyone can participate at their own comfort level.

1. Consider hosting a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt, where participants can search for hidden treats or treasures.
2. A sensory-friendly costume parade provides an opportunity for individuals to showcase their costumes without the pressure of traditional trick-or-treating interactions.
3. Malls often have a Halloween event. My kids loved it because instead of having to go door-to-door and being scared by some decorations or dealing with the nerves involved with knocking on a stranger's residence, they were already in a familiar place, and we got more candy in less time.

Lighting!

Creating a calming ambiance is crucial for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Utilize soft, dim lighting to set the mood and help individuals feel more at ease. This can involve using lanterns, fairy lights, or muted decorations that provide a gentle glow. Dim lighting not only adds to the Halloween atmosphere but also creates a soothing environment that accommodates different sensory preferences.

Treat Alternatives!

When it comes to treats and snacks, variety is key to ensuring inclusivity. This approach not only ensures that everyone can enjoy treats regardless of dietary restrictions but also promotes an inclusive and accommodating Halloween experience.

1. Provide an array of treats that cater to different dietary needs and preferences.
2. Non-food treats, such as stickers, small toys, or sensory-friendly items like stress balls, can also be offered.

Halloween is a time of enchantment and creativity, and it should be accessible to everyone, including those with sensory sensitivities. By incorporating sensory-sensitive decorations, embracing comfortable costume choices, offering alternative activities, utilizing dim lighting, and providing a range of treat options, we can create an inclusive and welcoming Halloween environment. Let’s celebrate this holiday in a way that respects and accommodates the diverse sensory needs of all individuals, ensuring that the magic of Halloween is truly enjoyed by everyone.